Herb-Infused Green Man Picnic Pie Recipe

If you’re searching for a dish that perfectly captures the essence of nature and makes your next picnic truly memorable, look no further than this Herb-Infused Green Man Picnic Pie. Inspired by the vibrant flavors of fresh herbs and seasonal vegetables, this pie is not just a feast for the taste buds but also a visual delight. My family adores this recipe, especially during spring and summer when we can enjoy it outdoors. The flaky crust paired with a savory filling makes it a versatile dish that can be served warm or cold, making it a fantastic addition to any gathering.

Ingredients

• For the pastry:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 1/4 cup ice water (more if needed)
• For the filling:
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup asparagus, chopped into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

Instructions

1. Prepare the pastry: In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Add the cold butter and rub it into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, mixing until the dough comes together. Shape it into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Cook the filling: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until soft. Add the spinach, asparagus, and mushrooms, and cook until tender. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
3. Mix the filling: In a large bowl, combine the ricotta, feta, eggs, herbs, salt, pepper, thyme, and oregano. Stir in the cooled vegetable mixture until well combined.
4. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
5. Roll out the pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pastry into a large circle, about 1/8 inch thick. Transfer it to a pie dish or tart pan, trimming any excess.
6. Fill the pie: Pour the filling into the pastry shell, smoothing the top. Roll out any remaining pastry to create a lattice top or simply cover it with another layer, cutting slits for steam to escape.
7. Bake: Brush the top with a bit of olive oil and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown. Let it cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing.
8. Serve: Enjoy warm or at room temperature, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 8
• Calories per serving: 320
• Total fat: 18g
• Saturated fat: 9g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 10g

Preparation Time

• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 40 minutes
• Total time: 1 hour

How to Serve

• With a side salad: Pair it with a light green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing meal.
• With dipping sauces: Serve with a side of tzatziki or garlic yogurt for an extra layer of flavor.
• With roasted vegetables: Complement with seasonal roasted veggies for a wholesome feast.
• As picnic fare: Cut into wedges and pack for picnics or outdoor gatherings.
• With a glass of wine: A chilled white wine or light red pairs beautifully with the pie.

Additional Tips

1. Herb freshness: Use fresh herbs whenever possible for the best flavor; dried herbs can be used but will be less fragrant.
2. Vegetable swaps: Feel free to swap in your favorite seasonal vegetables; zucchini, bell peppers, or kale work wonderfully.
3. Make-ahead: This pie can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven or serve cold.
4. Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free pie crust for a gluten-free version that everyone can enjoy.
5. Egg substitute: For a vegetarian version, substitute eggs with a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water).

Recipe Variations

• Cheese Lovers Pie: Add more cheese like mozzarella or goat cheese for a cheesier filling.
• Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for some heat.
• Meat Lover’s Pie: Add cooked sausage or chicken for a heartier version.
• Nutty Flavor: Add toasted pine nuts or walnuts to the filling for added texture.
• Savory Fruit: Mix in some sundried tomatoes or olives for a tangy twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with cucumber slices or carrot sticks for a crunchy side.
• Offer fresh fruit like berries or melon for a sweet contrast.
• Enjoy with a warm loaf of artisan bread to round out the meal.
• Pair with a light sparkling water or herbal iced tea for a refreshing drink option.
• Garnish with extra herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: The pie can be frozen before baking for up to 2 months. Just bake straight from the freezer, adding 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
• Reheating: To reheat, place slices in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.

Special Equipment

• Pie dish: A standard pie dish or tart pan will work well for this recipe.
• Rolling pin: A good rolling pin is essential for rolling out the pastry.
• Sharp knife: Use a sharp knife to cut the vegetables and slice the pie.
• Mixing bowls: A couple of mixing bowls in different sizes for preparing the filling and pastry.

FAQ

1. Can I use store-bought pastry?
Absolutely! Store-bought pastry saves time and can make the recipe even easier. Just follow the package instructions for rolling and baking.

2. How do I know when the pie is done?
The pie is done when the crust is golden brown and the filling is set. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.

3. Can I serve this pie cold?
Yes! This pie is delicious served cold, making it perfect for picnics or as a make-ahead meal.

4. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

5. What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
If you don’t have fresh herbs, you can substitute with dried herbs, but use about a third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.

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Closing Note

This Herb-Infused Green Man Picnic Pie is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of fresh flavors and seasonal ingredients. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an adventurous picnic, this pie is sure to become a favorite. Embrace the beauty of cooking with nature’s bounty and enjoy every delightful bite!